Key facts
- Indonesian citizens have filed a complaint against German cement producer Heidelberg Materials and its subsidiary PT Indocement Tunggal Prakarsa.
- The complaint alleges the proposed limestone mine and cement factory project in Central Java's Kendeng Mountains could lead to ecological damage and harm Indigenous livelihoods.
- This case is the first to leverage Germany's supply chain law, which holds companies accountable for human rights and environmental impacts in their supply chains.
- Heidelberg Materials maintains that community concerns were addressed during the permitting process and no final decision on the project has been made.
- The legal action is seen as part of a broader trend of increasing climate litigation against corporations globally and in Asia.
Indonesian citizens are challenging German cement giant Heidelberg Materials over a proposed mine and factory project in Central Java's Kendeng Mountains, utilizing Germany's supply chain law. Critics argue the project poses risks of ecological catastrophe, impoverishment, and human rights violations, potentially damaging a rare karst ecosystem and the livelihoods of the Indigenous Samin community.
Heidelberg Materials, one of the world's largest cement producers, stated that affected communities had the opportunity to voice concerns during the permitting process and that feedback was incorporated into project planning. The company also noted that no final decision on the project's implementation has been made.
This case is significant as it is the first complaint filed in Indonesia under Germany's supply chain law, which aims to ensure companies respect human rights and environmental standards throughout their global operations. Legal experts suggest such actions are becoming more influential as other European Union nations prepare to implement similar regulations. The trend of climate litigation against major corporations is growing globally, with other cases involving companies like Adidas and Shell in various Asian countries.
The plaintiffs, supported by local and international non-profits, contend that Heidelberg Materials did not adequately assess the potential harm of the project, which they say could impact a vital natural carbon sink and underground reservoir. The Kendeng Mountains have historically faced resistance to mining plans. The legal action seeks to uphold citizens' rights to a sustainable life, a healthy environment, and the preservation of the Kendeng Mountains.